RAP Student – Food Microbiomics

Location: Summerland

RAP Student – Food Microbiomics - Research Affiliate Program

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada - Science and Technology Branch

Closing date:
January 16, 2026 - 23:59, Pacific Time

Reference number
AGR
25J
- Selection process number
25-AGR-RAP-58 Location
Summerland (British Columbia)
Employment tenure
The projected start date is April 1st 2026 with an end date of December 22nd 2028 (or depending on the candidate's availability or needs). It is expected that the student will work 20 to 25 hours per week with the possibility of part-time extension.
Salary
$25.17 to $31.69 per hour - Varies as per the level of education and experience.
Who can apply
Persons residing in Canada, Canadian citizens, and Permanent residents abroad.

To be considered for Research Affiliate Program (RAP) work opportunities, all candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria by the date of appointment:
- Be recognized as having full-time student status at an accredited Canadian post-secondary academic institution (this includes students with a disability deemed to have full-time status). Individuals pending approval of acceptance or in the process of submitting applications are encouraged to apply, as proof of enrollment will only be required prior to the start date.
- Be enrolled in an academic program that requires research as part of the curriculum.
- Be at least the minimum age to work in the province or territory where the job is located.
Organization information
For further information on the organization, please visit .

On this page

About the position

Duties
The research areas of the MSc student include microbiome characterization of spoilage bacteria, predominantly Pseudomonads, in various food processing facilities, characterization of Pseudomonas biofilm formation and investigation of Pseudomonas biofilms using novel inactivation techniques. Specific duties include, but are not limited to:
- conducting sampling in food processing facilities
- bacteriological maintenance, enumeration and challenge studies
- bacteriophage propagation and inactivation
- processing and analysis of microbiological data
- amplicon/whole genome preparation for sequencing and analysis
- preparation of microbiological culture media and reagents Work environment
AAFC is committed to diversity and inclusion. We have several networks dedicated to ensuring that the department continues to grow as an inclusive, accessible, respectful and diverse workplace. All employees are encouraged and welcomed to join the networks and participate in their activities and events.

• The Gender and Sexual Diversity Inclusiveness Network

• The Indigenous Network Circle

• The Managers' Community

• The Person s with Disabilities Network

• The Student Panel of Representatives for Orientation, Unity and Training

• The Visible Minorities Network

• The Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network

• The Young Professional's Network Intent of the process
The food microbiology program at the Summerland Research & Development Centre is led by Dr. Karen Fong and conducts research to ensure the safety and security of the Canadian food supply. The Summerland Research & Development Centre is one of 20 research centres in Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada’s national network. Established in 1914, it is in the heart of the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia.

Under the supervision of Dr. Fong, the student is expected to perform independent research in the Food Microbiology laboratories, one of which is a containment-level II laboratory that they will work from. The student will also have opportunities to work with other graduate and undergraduate students. Work in the field, the laboratory and at the computer is to be expected.

Positions to be filled
1 Important messages
Candidates will be required to pay for their own travel related to assessment and successful candidates will be responsible for obtaining their own living accommodations.

Successful completion of both a RAP work assignment and your educational program may lead to a temporary or permanent federal public service position for which you meet the merit criteria and conditions of employment.

Conditions of employment

Reliability…